Computer Vision Syndrome FAQ
Below are some more frequently asked questions about computer vision syndrome.
What Are Some Symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome?
If someone spends more than two hours each day in front of a computer screen they will likely experience computer vision syndrome (CVS) to some degree. Symptoms include:
- Burning or tired eyes
- Double or blurred vision
- Eye twitching
- Headaches
- Loss of focus
- Neck and shoulder pains
Who Is Affected by CVS?
More than 143 million Americans work on a computer each day, with an estimated 88% of them suffering from computer eye strain. Additionally, almost 54 million children work on a computer at home or in school every day.
What Causes Computer Vision Syndrome?
CVS is caused by our eyes and brain reacting differently to characters on the screen than they do to printed characters. Characters on a computer screen lack the contrast or well-defined edges that printed characters have. Because the color intensity of digital characters diminishes around the edges, it is difficult for eyes to remain focused. Having to continually refocus on digital text fatigues the eyes and can lead to burning or tired eyes.
What Should I Do?
You should consult an eye doctor that specializes in computer vision care. During your eye exam your correct computer working distance should be determined and from there it's a simple matter to obtain a prescription for computer eyeglasses.
Will My Reading Glasses Work at the Computer?
Not necessarily. The range your reading glasses enable you to see is usually shorter than the distance from which you are supposed to be from your monitor.
Do Computer Eyeglasses Look Like Safety Glasses?
No, what differentiates computer glasses from other prescription glasses are the lenses, not the frames. The majority of the time, multifocal lenses such as bifocals or trifocals will be the best suited to your needs, as they are designed specifically for working at a computer. They allow you to see clearly at your correct computer screen distance and can give you some distance vision.
Will Insurance Help with the Cost?
Depending on the type of insurance you have, some of the cost may be covered. If you have vision insurance, you may be entitled to an annual exam, which could be used to cover the computer exam and a portion of the cost of the computer eyewear. If you have medical coverage, but not vision insurance, the exam portion of the cost may be covered by your medical carrier.
Won't Ergonomics Solve the Problem?
Having one's computer workstation configured correctly can minimize symptoms, but ergonomics cannot correct a visual problem. The proper prescription computer eyeglasses at the proper computer distance is most important.
For more information, AllAboutVision.com's section on computer vision syndrome.
Can my eyes and face get burned by computer monitors?
No.
How can I relieve eye stress from looking at computers all day?
There are a few options available to relieve accumulated eye strain. Try to focus on a far away object about every 15 minutes when working on the computer. Keep your monitor at the correct height and distance at your work station. You can also adjust the montior's contrast and the room's lighting to suit your needs. More information on this subject can be found here.
Can I still use computers if I've been diagnosed with low vision?
You will likely require low vision aids in order to continue using a computer. Generally, the same low vision magnifiers you use for regular reading activities can help when viewing a computer screen. When deciding which low vision aid is best for you, consider the activities you perform on a regular basis including computer use.
If you find that you are still having trouble using computers, there are some software solutions and tips for low vision computer users.